Outbreak of Viral Disease Causing White-Tailed Deer Mortalities Raises Concerns
A significant outbreak of epizootic hemorrhagic disease (EHD) is causing widespread deaths among white-tailed deer populations across several Eastern states, prompting wildlife officials to advise hunters about precautions when handling and consuming venison.
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) recently reported nearly 100 confirmed cases throughout the state within a matter of weeks, calling for calm but vigilance. According to the DNR, “Humans are not at risk from handling or eating meat of affected deer, but consumption of animals exhibiting large, open sores—regardless of cause—is discouraged.”
EHD Explained: Transmission and Symptoms
Epizootic hemorrhagic disease, commonly referred to as EHD, typically emerges across Eastern U.S. states in late summer and fall. The virus is vectored by biting midges—minute flying insects also known colloquially as “no-see-ums” due to their tiny size.
Once infected, deer experience symptoms including internal hemorrhaging, respiratory distress, swelling near the eyes, and profound lethargy. The disease leads to high mortality rates in affected herds during outbreak years.
It is important to clarify that EHD does not transmit through direct contact among deer, nor is it zoonotic; humans cannot contract the virus.
Regional Impact and Ongoing Surveillance
This year’s severe outbreak is not isolated to Maryland. Neighboring states such as Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia have also reported cases, raising concerns about regional deer population health.
New York has yet to confirm any official EHD cases in 2026, although the Cornell Wildlife Health Lab notes that the state has experienced annual EHD outbreaks since 2020. Notably, the 2020 large-scale outbreak in the lower Hudson Valley resulted in approximately 1,500 deer deaths, reflecting the significant ecological impact EHD can exert.
Expert Wildlife Perspective
From a wildlife disease specialist’s viewpoint, these periodic EHD outbreaks are a natural but challenging aspect of white-tailed deer ecology in the Eastern United States. The seasonal pattern aligns with peak activity periods of the biting midges, which thrive in warm, humid conditions often found in late summer.
The intensity and spread of recent outbreaks underscore the need for continuous monitoring of deer health and habitat conditions, as well as public education to mitigate unfounded fears about venison safety.
While EHD poses no direct human health risk, hunters and wildlife enthusiasts are advised to inspect deer carefully and avoid consuming animals with visible lesions to prevent secondary infections or other complications.
Additional reporting and sources from: Outbreak of viral deer-killing disease prompts alarm, warning to meat eaters
